Boomshots

Category: Jamaica

  • Spice Drops ‘Mirror 25,’ Reflects on 25 Years of Dominance and Celebrates Kartel’s Homecoming

    Spice Drops ‘Mirror 25,’ Reflects on 25 Years of Dominance and Celebrates Kartel’s Homecoming

    When Spice Pulls Up It’s Always a Movie

    The Queen of Dancehall’s third studio album Mirror 25 dropped today and like everything Spice-related it’s got the internet goin’ nuts. Lead-off single “2085 Tea” set the tone of hardcore dancehall with a dash up mix-up while the country-hip-hop hybrid “Round Round” featuring Busta Rhymes showed the album’s versatility. “Ex Boyfriend” is a masterpiece of melodic pop while her Chronic Law collab “Gangsta” shows a harder side of Grace Hamilton. Now we’ve heard the full 25 tracks it’s clear that Mirror 25 is Spice’s best body of work ever. The musical offerings range from inspirational tunes like “You Are Worthy” to mad collabs like featuring “Cry” featuring Lola Brooke and of course “Super Hero” featuring Pamputtae and Jada Kingdom aka Harley Quint, Bumpa Incredible and Tightimus Prime. Last time Spice was in NYC she sat down with Reshma B who dug into her archive and pulled out a very rare CD that brought back some emotional memories for Spice. You don’t want to miss this interiew.  Check out the full story on Complex.  Video After The Jump…  (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Bay-C x Xyclone “Get Inna The Groove” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Bay-C x Xyclone “Get Inna The Groove” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    “Put the Dance Back Inna Dancehall”

    When Bay-C of the millennial dancehall supergroup T.O.K and veteran DJ Xyclone of the Red Square crew topped the iTunes Reggae chart last week with a #1 debut, it’s safe to say that their fun, energetic collaborative EP Flawless Victory exceeded even their own bold expectations. “I’m very elated,” says Xyclone, whose previous track record of success earned him the moniker “charting king.” When Xyclone reached out to Bay-C, the seasoned hitmaker jumped at the chance to collaborate. “From the T.O.K days until now I’ve always been one to watch and see who ah make moves inna the streets,” Bay-C told Boomshots. “I saw that Xyclone ah do him thing for quite some time and silently ah conquer the game.” They joined forces to make a straight-up Dancehall project at a time when the genre was ready for a big victory. Self-proclaimed pundits and even some producers have been quick to write the genre off while experimenting with the fusion of Afrobeats and Trap. Moreover, this particular victory is taking place during a week when the Bob Marley bio-pic One Love is the #1 movie in the world. “I think it was very important for us to send a message that we still have people out there who support Dancehall,” Xyclone declares. Today at 12 noon EST, Boomshots proudly premieres the first music video from one of the hottest dancehall projects of the new year. Shot in the streets of Kingston, “Get Inna The Groove” was produced by Dee Master and features the choreographic creativity of Pata Skeng. Peep the vibrant visuals below and check out the reasoning with Bay-C and Xyclone aka the “charting king.”  Video After The Jump…  

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  • WATCH THIS: Dukes of Roots ft. Natiruts “Try Happy” Official Music Video Premiere

    WATCH THIS: Dukes of Roots ft. Natiruts “Try Happy” Official Music Video Premiere

    “Life’s Better With A Smile On Your Face”

    As Bunny Wailer once observed “there’s no stems, leaves, or branches without the roots.” So it makes perfect sense for two global reggae ensembles—Dukes of Roots, representing Africa and Jamaica, and Natiruts, reppin’ Brazil—to join forces on “Try Happy.” Natiruts, of course are one of the world’s most respected reggae bands, and while Dukes of Roots may be a new name, its singers and players are well known, inlcuding the legendary bass player George “Fully” Fullwood, Congolese singer Mermans Mosengo, musical brothers Sean and Courtney Diedrick on keyboards and drums respectively, and Rod Walkey on guitar. Recorded in Brazil back in 2022, “Try Happy” was produced by Sean “Pow” Diedrick, the Jamaican-born keyboard maestro who tours the world with Damian Marley along with his brother, master drummer Courtney “Bam” Diedrick. Coming on the heels of  “John Punch” featuring the great Darius Rucker, and “Pressure Drop,” a tribute to the late great Toots Hibbert that also features living legend Tarrus Riley, the Dukes’ upful single has all the makings of a modern classic. Boomshots is proud to premiere the official music video, directed by our bredren Kieran Khan.  Check the vibes and do remember, “either way we gonna be okay.” Video After The Jump…

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  • Buju Banton’s ‘Born for Greatness’ Sets The Gold Standard

    Buju Banton’s ‘Born for Greatness’ Sets The Gold Standard

    Gargamel Still Has The Stamina

    I first heard Buju Banton’s ragga-rough voice roaring in 1992, the first year the DJ really buss. Three decades later, as I laid eyes on the album art for Buju’s 12th studio album, Born For Greatness, one thing was clear: The artist who made his name with raw Dancehall Boomshots like “Stamina Daddy” and “Gold Spoon” has come a long way, over hills and valleys too—but The Gargamel still has the stamina to maintain the Gold Standard.  Review Continues After The Jump…

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  • WATCH THIS: Kelly Shane x Busy Signal “Ain’t That Loving You” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Kelly Shane x Busy Signal “Ain’t That Loving You” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    Tanya’s Dawta Sings With The Turf Prez

    Kelly Shane has taken the world by surprise—but looking back on it now, it all makes sense. As the child of one of Jamaica’s greatest singer-songwriters, Kelly grew up surrounded by great music. Touring with her mother Tanya Stephens during school vacations and later working as her personal assistant, Kelly absorbed all sorts of powerful vibes. As a professionally trained makeup artist, she worked on video shoots, fashion shows, and ad campaigns, but never stepped into the spotlight herself. Our first glimpse of Kelly’s vocal and writing talents was “So Damaged,” a heartfelt duet with her mother on Tanya’s latest album, Some Kinda Madness. Kelly also credits her grandmother as a major influence. “As the owner of the radio and the house, her favorite music was mostly played,” says the young singer. “Alton Ellis and the entire British-Jamaican music movement was a big part of the soundtrack of my life.” So it’s only natural that Kelly’s first release should be a cover version of a poignant love ballad popularized in reggae circles by Mr. Soul of Jamaica. This particular tune became even more personal when Kelly recorded it. “At the time I was seeing someone that was very hesitant to love again,” she says. “So it felt like I was speaking my own words, trying to convince them to take a chance on me. Busy’s verse also summed up how they were feeling too—so when I heard it I cried a lot.” Collaborating with one of Jamaica’s most respected deejays ain’t a bad way to kick off a young career. “To be very honest, I didn’t think he would do it,” Kelly says of Busy. “This is my first song and it felt like I was really asking him to take a chance on me. I didn’t feel deserving of having him on a song, but I had him on a song—with two verses that I really really loved.” Boomshots is proud to premiere the very first music video from a rising star. Hello world! Get familiar with Kelly Shane. Video After The Jump… (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Yaadcore x Damage Musiq “Genuine” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Yaadcore x Damage Musiq “Genuine” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    “To Build the Confidence of the Black Man”

    Like all great selectors, Yaadcore has a gift for speaking the right words and playing the right sound at the perfect moment. Bringing all of those strengths together to step up as a deejay is a natural progression. From Daddy U Roy and Super Cat to Tony Matterhorn and Charly Black, top selectors become top artists—all they need is a top tune. A “Genuine” tune. When Yaadcore linked with Damage Musiq, producer of new generation dancehall anthems like “Rags to Riches,” they created something special. “Was a joy working with Damage,” says the artist. “We actually go way bac from high school days and we were in a sound system together as well! Proud to see the impact he has made in dancehall space.” The impact of their song “Genuine” will be mighty indeed. “The song is not about discrimination,” Yaadcore explains, “but to build the confidence of the Black man.” Boomshots is proud to premiere these powerful visuals, collaborating with Yaadcore to seal up Black History Month—and Reggae Month—with a banger. Watch as the artist serves as an angel on a young man’s shoulder, reminding him to put down the bleaching cream and to lift up his conscience as he goes through the daily struggles of life. “When I look and see the Black man being misled every day to feel that light skin color makes you a better person or makes more people like you is really the inspiration for this song,” Yaadcore explains. “Wanting to see I&I brothers and sisters to know their true power within their melanin as well as to discourage the ones that are not doing it but face the temptation every day being surrounded by this.”  Video After The Jump…

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  • Sizzla “Praise Ye Jah” 25th Anniversary Mixtape

    Sizzla “Praise Ye Jah” 25th Anniversary Mixtape

    Celebrating a Classic Album, Live From Judgment Yard

    “I did behold!” It’s been a quarter of a century since Sizzla Kalonji’s anthem “Praise Ye Jah” first rang out of sound systems all across Jamaica and electrified the worldwide dancehall reggae massive with his revolutionary sound and energy. When the teen prodigy born Miguel Collins linked up with legendary producer Philip “Fatis” Burrell and his Xterminator crew—including saxophonist and musical director Dean Fraser, Sly & Robbie, and a veteran session band known as the Firehouse Crew—musical history was made. Fast forward to 2023 and Fatis’ son Kareem “Remus” Burrell is carrying on the family legacy with XTM Nation. Today XMT is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Sizzla’s landmark album ‘Praise Ye Jah’ by bringing the vibes to a new generation with XTM’s “Praise Ye Jah” mixtape featuring exclusive dubplates by the likes of Tarrus Riley, Spragga Benz, Kabaka Pyramid, Pressure Buss Pipe, Protoje, Lila Ike, and more. The Boomshots crew linked up with XTM and rolled to August Town for an exclusive reasoning with the man they call Dada. He spoke about his memories of working with Fatis, his respect for Remus, and his unique vision for his purpose in life. Sizzla has invested the proceeds of a successful music career, building up his Judgment Yard community, providing a working studio, library, and other economic opportunities, and supporting the Sizzla Youth Foundation. This man’s motivation goes way beyond industry accolades. Time to put some respect on Sizzla’s name. Mixtape & Mini-Doc After The Jump…  (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Baby Cham x Bounty Killer “BLOOD CLXXT” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Baby Cham x Bounty Killer “BLOOD CLXXT” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    Nobody Nah Talk, So Madhouse Haffi Cuss BLOOD CLXXT 

    The term “BLOOD CLXXT” has a rich and complex history in the Jamaican vernacular. “You can’t get more authentic Jamaican than blood claat,” says dancehall star Baby Cham. “Blood claat is the only word we use for joy, frustrations, stress, happiness.” Officially considered a profanity on the island, the word can get an artist in a whole heap of trouble if they utter it onstage. But given the mood of the times all over the world, there was no other word to sum of the vibes of moment. And so of course the dancehall super-producer Dave Kelly chose the word as the title of the first single from Baby Cham and Bounty Killer’s highly anticipated collaborative EP Time Bomb on the legendary Madhouse Records imprint. Boomshots is proud to premiere the official video for the tune today, along with “Buss The Dance,” a video recap of the big Madhouse tribute which took place last week at Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay. Video After The Jump…  (more…)

  • Tanya Stephens & Patra Reason About Their New Collaboration “50”

    Tanya Stephens & Patra Reason About Their New Collaboration “50”

    When Two Legends Connect

    As a wise woman once said, “Nothing before the time.” Two of Jamaica’s most respected recording artists—Tanya Stephens and Patra—recently joined forces for the first time on a new song called “50.” The result? “Revolutionized big woman shenanigans.” Their historic collaboration will be featured on Tanya’s 10th studio album Some Kinda Madness, which launches in September 2022 via Tad’s Records. In this exclusive Boomshots interview, the dancehall legends speak with Reshma B about their lives and careers as strong women in the music industry, and why everything gets better with age.  Video After The Jump…  (more…)

  • Damian Marley, Shabba Ranks, and Burning Spear Speak on the Return of the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise

    Damian Marley, Shabba Ranks, and Burning Spear Speak on the Return of the Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise

    All In The Same Boat, Rockin’ On The Same Rock


    “All in the same boat, rockin’ on the same rock,” Bob Marley sang on the Wailers’ 1971 classic “    Don’t Rock My Boat.” Produced by the late great Lee “Scratch” Perry, the song is a plea for unity in keeping with the time-honored values of reggae music. “Got to get together,” Bob sang, “loving each other.” Some forty years after its release “Don’t Rock My Boat” became a sort of unofficial theme song for the Welcome To Jamrock Reggae Cruise, an yearly musical excursion created by Bob’s youngest son Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley and his longtime manager Dan Dalton. Of course the official cruise anthem would be Jr. Gong’s Grammy-winning smash hit “Welcome to Jamrock.”

    “How blessed we are to have the opportunity to be doing this,” Jr. Gong said back in 2014 when the first Jamrock cruise set off from Miami to Jamaica, with an all-star lineup of the greatest Jamaican reggae and dancehall stars on board, as well as many of the world’s top reggae sound systems. “All of us who are on the cruise are part of a historic moment,” Jr. Gong predicted. “Both for ourselves and on behalf of the genre of reggae music.” Or as the world-famous recording artist and selector Shinehead put it that first year, “I only fantasized about shit like this. It’s like Rub-A-Dub Disneyland!”


    Over the next six years, the Jamrock Cruise emerged as one of reggae’s premier annual events, hosting historic performances year after year and selling out so quickly the organizers expanded to a larger vessel. As the sixth cruise wrapped up in 2019 with powerful performances by the likes of Koffee, Popcaan, Buju Banton, and Skip Marley, the Jamrock team was looking forward to smooth sailing ahead. But then as the new decade began, the whole world changed. 

    A worldwide viral outbreak shut down the cruise industry and many other aspects of life as we once knew it. Since then two Jamrock Cruises had to be postponed, and cruisers were invited to refund their deposit. “But many of our loyal supporters have held on to their reservations,” says Dalton. “I think people have been yearning for Jamrock more than ever. The community vibe on the ship has always been love and unity and diversity, celebrated under the umbrella of reggae music and Jamaican culture. This cruise is more than a festival to be honest. It’s not just a good time. Jamrock is more like a food for the soul kinda thing. Jamrock brings people together. That’s what reggae music always did.” 

    Today VIBE and Boomshots are announcing the official lineup for the seventh Welcome to Jamrock Reggae Cruise, which includes two legendary first-time performers: Burning Spear and Shabba Ranks. Video After The Jump…  (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Busy Signal “Cruising” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Busy Signal “Cruising” Official Music Video PREMIERE

    The Turf President Takes A Smokey Robinson Classic To The Dancehall

    Busy Signal is dancehall’s most versatile hitmaker. Ready for some roughneck reality? Cue up “Stay So” and watch every badman in the place buss a blank. When it’s party time, drop “Watch Out For This (Bumaye),” his outernational Major Lazer collab, and watch the whole place tun up. If it’s bar work you want, check “All In One” and watch Busy brutalize a grip of classic hip hop beats like the five fingers of death. And when it comes to some smooth sounds for the ladies, the Turf Prezident knows just how to set a romantic mood. “Some of Busy Signal’s biggest hits have been on the lovers’ records,” says Junior Brown, founder of Nuh Rush Records. Romantic rub-a-dub selections like “One More Night” and “Night Shift” have become a highlight of every Busy Signal performance. Today VIBE and Boomshots proudly premiere the official music video for “Cruising,” a Nuh Rush production which is soon to become another fixture in Busy’s catalog. “This will be one for the books,” says Busy, describing his dancehall remake of the Smokey Robinson R&B staple. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to do such a classic song in my own way and style.” Video After The Jump…  (more…)

  • WATCH THIS: Morgan Heritage ft. Rytikal, Jahshii & I-Octane “Headline Fi Frontpage” Lyric Video PREMIERE

    WATCH THIS: Morgan Heritage ft. Rytikal, Jahshii & I-Octane “Headline Fi Frontpage” Lyric Video PREMIERE

    The Truth Must Reveal

    It’s been a long time since we’ve heard new music from Morgan Heritage, but today the Grammy-winning brothers Peetah, Gramps and Mr. Mojo came through with a hard-hitting new track featuring guest verses from some of the freshest young voices in the dancehall. Rising stars Rytikal aka Puryti—fresh off his victory in court—and the born fighter named Jahshii join veteran dancehall star I-Octane aka the Hot Ras to hold up a mirror to the ills of society and burn a hotter fire on the news media that pushes mindless clickbait while refusing to report the real story. This is what the late great Fela Kuti had in mind when he said “Music is the weapon of the future.”  Video After The Jump…
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